Sunday, 21 September 2008

Mirrored times 2

I took this picture (along with three dozen more that didn't even turn out this well) back in August. I figured if I didn't hurry up and use it I'd have to wait until next year. Before too long we'll be into grayer days and this will seem out of place.

The mirrored buildings are designed and positioned to reflect the Marine Building, Vancouver's art deco gem. It is worth seeing. I've worked for the engineering department of the Marine Building and it doesn't hold quite the same charm for me now as it did before I worked there.

There is a fair bit of folklore that goes with it but to me the most interesting fact concerning the Marine Building is that it was built during the depression.

13 comments
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I can see why people might want to see it, it looks a lovely example of art deco. I would appreciate the thought and planning that went into the planning of these buildings so many city planners wouldn't have bothered..

This is such a cool view. I've never explored the Marine Building -- is the interior still art deco or was it at some point gutted and modernized? I love walking into the lobby of the Empire State Building because the design is so well preserved, it feels kinda like a time machine for old New York.

ANything art deco is good by me. I like the reflections. ANd I love your shot with that cheerful yellow car.

Wayne,I posted a similar photo of downtown B'ham a while back and yours is much, much better. Maybe since we hardly have any skyscapers it didn't have the impact that yours does. Give us another shot of that good looking art deco building some time.

Chuck, I'm sure your memory is correct. I've crawled over that entrance with a ladder more than once but I couldn't tell you what is on it. What I do know is that it isn't called the Marine Building for nothing. Everywhere you look there are references to the sea. Seashells, mermaids, ships bows, masts, oars. A veritable potpourri.

Laurie, I'll tell you an interior near you that knocked my socks off when I saw it. The Edison building opposite the main library in downtown LA. Have you seen it. Of course the Bradbury will always be my sentimental favourite.